Chicago flight to New Orleans diverts to Jackson, lands safely

United Airlines Flight No. 1263 out of Chicago to New Orleans was diverted Monday night due to a mechanical issue and landed safely in Jackson, Miss., officials said.

The Boeing 737 aircraft, carrying 116 passengers and 6 crew members, landed safely at Jackson-Evers International Airport at about 10:13 p.m. Monday, United Airlines spokeswoman Jennifer Dohm said this morning. The plane had taken off from O'Hare International Airport at 7:38 p.m., Dohm said.

Passengers were able to board an alternative flight to New Orleans early this morning, said Dohm.